Stop talking, start thinking

No longer the little brother of Alberta post-secondary institutions, Mount Royal has grown up and become a university.

It’s time to start acting like one.

The last two year’s have been filled with elaborate centennial celebrations and hoopla stemming from achieving university status.

During this time, administration basked in the media spotlight, while smug students sneered at the word college like it contained leprosy. We also staked claim to Mayor Naheed Nenshi, who’s historic rise to power further cemented Mount Royal’s status as a legitimate city player.

So much happened so quickly and seemingly so easily. And, hey — there were some great parties along the way.

However, each success also increases the danger of developing an unearned sense of entitlement.

Mount Royal deserves its seat at the adult table next to more mature universities such as the University of Calgary and University of Alberta. That’s it though. There’s still so much more left to prove.

Let’s not forget we were an excellent college because of small class-sizes and strong co-op programs, which cater nicely to hands-on learning.

Yet, universities are much more about thinking than doing. And Mount Royal is still a sub-par university when it comes to doing research and challenging academics.

If new university president David Docherty’s fall address is any indication then MRU appears to be growing up.

It’s “time to walk the university walk,” Docherty announced during his speech on Aug. 29. The president appeared on-board with previous aspirations of beefing up research efforts.

He’s also said building a new library — “the intellectual heart of any university” — is his number one priority heading into his first year as president.

Research and libraries aren’t nearly as fun as throwing parties, but they’re crucial to providing a quality education.

Let’s stop talking and start earning our reputation.

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